Love in 2014: Diamonds Direct Love Stories

2014 LOVE STORIES JANUARY – DECEMBER 2014

JANUARY 2014

Love Stories: Al and Jenifer Al Cason, 42, president of Bud’s Best Cookies, and Jenifer Fowler, 36, a registered ER nurse, weren’t looking for love when they met. But on their first date, they instantaneously realized their lives had been leading each to one another all along. A fivemonth romance now leads these two down the altar, as they combine families and realize the love they never knew was possible.

Photos by Michael K Photography

How did you two meet?

A: Jenifer actually came out [to Bud’s Best Cookies] for a cookie tour. At the end of the tour, we went into the sample room, and I got everyone cookies to take with them. I was showing Jenifer one of our cookies called the Buddy Bear, because you can break it in half and give half to a buddy. And as I broke it in half—did I have you hold half and I held half?

J: Yes, you said, “Here, take it! Try this cookie!”

A: When I broke the cookie off, we had a moment when our eyes locked. Just from the look in her eyes— it was something about her eyes—I could just see through to her whole heart and soul.

How was the first date?

J: On our first date, it was like conversation never ended. We went to eat at Bellini’s, we drove back to my house, and we just sat and talked. In no time at all, I looked up and said “Oh my gosh, it’s 3:00 in the morning!” It’s been that way since. We complete each other’s sentences and thoughts and everything. I could send him to the store right now, and he’d probably pick up every single thing I need.

When did you know you had fallen in love?

A: We both felt it, really, from the beginning. I guess if it’s there, it’s there. At our age and having been married before, to actually experience this a little later in life is really just an amazing thing.

J: As far as knowing, and everything happening so fast, I tried to deny it at first because I was like, “There’s no way it can be this already.” We hadn’t even known each other but a month. He told me he loved me, and I was like, “Okay, that’s exactly how I feel, too, but I just can’t believe that it’s already here.”

Tell us about the proposal.

A: It’s funny how different things can affect you in different ways. In August, we went to a Bryan Adams concert here in Birmingham; it was just an acoustic set that he did with his guitar. He sang a song I’ve never heard before called “When You Love Someone.” When I heard that song, the words really resonated with me. At that point, I decided to put my house on the market and find a place in Helena so her kids could stay in their same school and sports teams. She loves the beach, so I had worked out to propose to her on the beach at Henderson Park Inn in Destin.

J: On November 1, we arrive at the inn and walk through these French doors into a room and I just remember thinking, “Wow, this is beautiful!” The waiter seats us, and right as I turned around, Al moved his chair and went to one knee. He was talking, and I didn’t even really hear anything. I knew he was talking, and a photographer came in, and the waiter was grabbing flowers, and he was speaking, and I was crying… he asked me to marry him, and I said yes.

What was your experience like shopping for the ring at Diamonds Direct?

A: I wanted something as pure and true as our story. Amit [the owner] helped me find that. I bet I went over there four different times. He had different diamonds set into the ring multiple times to find exactly what I was going to be happy with. When the ring finally worked out, when we got just the one, we knew at the same time we had something really special.

How has it been joining your two families as one?

J: Our families have merged together, and it’s like we’ve always been together. We’ve been moving into our new house all weekend, and Buddy [Al’s son, 16] said to me, “Jenifer, you know what? We’re going to spend the very first night in our new house together as one family.” And my boys [Seth, 14 and Kohl, 10] just absolutely love Al to death. He’s been such a good influence on them. For instance, Al always opens my car door for me; now my boys will be like, “Mom, don’t open that,” and they’ll open the door for me.

What is the best part about your love story?

A: She’s my best friend, the love of my life, and my soulmate. And not just to the point that we get along and are happy and have fun, but she makes me a better person and a better man.

J: People that I work with will get me to tell our story over and over again. It’s much better than I could have ever dreamed. God has given me more than I even knew to dream of.

FEBRUARY 2014

Love Stories: Erin and Paige A shiny brass key opened the door to their new home and the start of the rest of their lives. For Erin Price, 26, a banker at Wells Fargo, and Paige Fletcher, 26, Special Events Manager at the Birmingham Museum of Art, the foundation of love, laughter, and just the right amount of spontaneity form the blueprint that guides their story to wherever life takes them—as long as it leads them back to home sweet home.

Photos by Kelli + Daniel Taylor Photography

How did you two meet?

P: Erin and I met through mutual friends during our freshman year at Auburn. We hit it off immediately because we could both make each other laugh. If we are still laughing at each other seven years later, it's definitely going to be a great marriage!

What is your most memorable date?

E: We decided on a Friday afternoon, while we were both still at work, to pack a bag, book a hotel room, and head straight to the beach after work. It was a weekend in October, so the area wasn't crowded at all, and the weather was just amazing. It was so spontaneous and we had so much fun.

It's definitely the date we always try and beat.

Tell us about the proposal.

E: Paige and I have been through so many great experiences together over the past seven years, from college graduations to landing our first jobs. Buying a house was next up on my list of things to accomplish, and I wanted her to be there with me.

P: Erin told me he had scheduled a viewing appointment at a house over in Crestline Park. As we sat in the driveway of the house, he had the biggest grin on his face—he told me that he purchased the house and it was ours! I ran across the yard and put up the “sold” sign; when I turned around, he was down on his knee. Inside the ring box was not only the beautiful ring we had both picked out at Diamonds Direct, but also a shiny house key.

What was your experience like shopping for the ring at Diamonds Direct?

E: I was very relieved when I learned that Paige wanted to help pick out her own ring. Ring shopping can be intimidating, but Karen at Diamonds Direct made sure we understood all the details of diamond shopping.

P: I chose a thin, white gold band with diamonds, with an equally thin halo around the center cushion cut stone. I was drawn to this design because the dainty, thin band and halo really showcase the center stone. I am so proud of my ring, not just because it's beautiful, but I know all the details about it.

What is your favorite thing to do together as a couple?

P: We have spent the last year filling our home with things that are so perfectly us. So when we have free time, we really like to just spend it around the house, finishing a home project or having friends over.

E: We are lucky to have so many of the same friends. We rarely have to plan or "guys’ night" or "girls’ night" because we enjoy being with all of our friends together. We love to spend just as much time with our friends as we do just the two of us, especially at this fun stage in our lives.

What are you most looking forward to about spending the rest of your lives together?

P: I think we are really just looking forward to new experiences with each other. Putting ourselves outside of our comfort zone, but still being together, is going to make some great memories.

Whether it's traveling somewhere new, signing up for a gym membership together, or eating at a new restaurant, we love the thrill of knowing that we are both doing something new together.

MARCH 2014

Love Stories: Jason & Juliana The story begins with a southern gentleman who meets a New Yorker online, and as they connect, the map of their future begins to unfold. Jason Harper, 34, proposed to Juliana Rehm, 28, amidst the beautiful Italian landscape, a scene most would only dream of. But for this couple, their love is more than a fairy tale romance—it’s the real thing.

Photography by Foto Flash- I Fotografi Di Capri

How did you two meet?

Jason: We actually met through eHarmony. I guess it is still somewhat unconventional, but we couldn’t be happier with the results. I was at my house with two of my guy friends and saw Juliana’s picture and profile. I told them, “Look—she just looks sweet.” Our first phone call lasted about five hours, and the conversation was so easy. It felt right.

What makes your relationship unique?

Juliana: I am originally from upstate New York, and Jason is from Alabama—a pretty unlikely match based on where we are from—but we grew up in similar areas within our separate states and have so much in common. I am proud to say this Yankee is now a full-fledged Alabamian.

What is your favorite thing about each other?

Jason: She listens to me, she comforts me, and she supports me. She loves me even when I do not deserve it.

Juliana: Jason truly pays attention and listens; he’s so in tune with me, my feelings, and he generously gives me the attention, affection, and praise I need.

When did you know you had met “the one”?

Jason: During our dating, things just were easy. I’ve found a peace with her that is shrouded in love, care and respect. There wasn’t a flip-the-switch moment. As many times as I’ve heard it (and I hated to hear it), when you know, you know. It’s true!

Juliana: As I got to know Jason, I quickly saw he was different. From his first note on eHarmony, to our first phone conversation, to our engagement, he has been so thoughtful and has truly put me before

himself. He is the person that I had prayed for, and God answered that prayer when He knew the time was right.

Tell us about the proposal.

Juliana: We got in engaged in Capri, Italy. I had no inclination that the engagement was even a possibility in Italy, as Jason had surprised me with the trip itself a few short months before. That day was an absolute fairy tale; he hired a private boat to take us around the Island of Capri, he had arranged the most romantic picnic lunch, and he even hired a photographer to (secretly) capture every moment of the day.

Jason: During this day tour, we went to a private location—very rocky and gorgeous—where I asked for her hand in marriage. Soon before I knelt to one knee, we prayed together. We prayed for our future family, our current family, our friends, and for the Lord bringing us together. It was an emotional time for us both.

We understand your engagement ring has a unique surprise.

Jason: Karen at Diamonds Direct helped me in my quest to find a very small diamond, what I call the "for better or worse" diamond, that was as dirty and flawed as we could find. We placed this on the inside band of the ring as a testament of my love to Juliana.

Juliana: That evening after the proposal, Jason asked me to remove my engagement ring and revealed to me that the imperfect diamond hidden in the band was meant to symbolize “for worse” in our covenant of marriage, while the beautiful exterior diamond was meant to symbolize “for better.”

Now that you’ve found “the one,” what advice would you give to someone else about love/relationships?

Jason: Don’t rush. Don’t confuse other emotions for love.

Juliana: Wait until you have found the one person you truly cannot imagine life without.

What are you most looking forward to about spending the rest of your lives together?

Jason: Traveling the globe, eating our way through a country, laughing for no reason. Sunday drives in my old green truck my granddad gave me.

Juliana: Experiencing everything in life together and building a beautiful life on the strong foundation we already have.

APRIL 2014

Love Stories: Caroline and Luke For Luke Holcomb, 32, and Caroline Stephens, 24, it doesn’t matter what they’re doing, as long as they’re doing it together. From the moment they first locked eyes, this couple’s love story has been growing, ultimately culminating in a picturesque proposal atop the highest peak in Alabama.

Photos by by J Marie Photography

How did you two meet?

C: Luke and I first met when I visited a small group he was leading through our church. The first thing that caught my eye was, “Man, this guy is really cute... this is going to make it hard to concentrate!”

What was your most memorable date?

L: For our second date, we went to see a Matthew Mayfield concert, and I still wasn’t sure how she felt about me. She left to go to the restroom, and a few minutes later she returned without me knowing. As she walked up, she softly touched the lower part of my back. Immediately, I stood up straight and thought, “Oh, she does like me!”

What is your favorite thing about your partner?

C: I love his laugh. No matter what, if he starts laughing, I can’t control myself—it’s contagious.

L: Her smile. She’s always had a very genuine, yet unique smile, as evidenced from all the childhood pictures that her family has shown me of her. It’s so pure and so joyous.

Tell us about the proposal.

L: I planned the proposal in a way that she wouldn’t expect, at a time that she wouldn’t expect, and in a location that had an overwhelming presence: Bald Rock on Mount Cheaha, the highest point in the state of Alabama.

C: Luke skillfully planned a day of hiking—something I love to do—just for us to spend some time together. When we got out to the rock, he told me to look around for some pretty areas so that we could take some pictures while he got his camera. Next thing I knew, I turned around and he was down on one knee with a ring box open.

L: She was completely surprised—so much that I had to ask her the question twice!

What was your experience like shopping for the ring at Diamonds Direct?

C: I loved it. Luke and I went separately, so when I went to look, my sister Jennifer went with me.

We worked with Charlie, who gave me a different perspective about ring shopping. He encouraged me to not just look at the engagement ring alone, but instead look at it with a band since I will be wearing the set much longer than I will just be wearing the engagement ring.

Which part of your upcoming wedding are you most excited about?

C: I am most excited about the part where I get to say my vows to Luke, where I get to commit myself to him and him only, and where I get to promise to love him through the rest of our lives with our closest family and friends supporting us.

L: Definitely the reception. We’re having many of our extended family and friends together for the first time, and we’re excited about everyone being able to share in our big day with good food, music, and fun!

Now that you’ve found “the one,” what advice would you give to someone else about love?

C: Don’t be anxious. As a girl, it’s easy to get caught up in the world of “I want that,” but if you are patient and just let love happen, I can promise you it will be so much better than you ever dreamed possible.

L: Never settle for less than you deserve, no matter how long it takes to find that person. The day that you decide to settle may be the day before you meet the person you’re destined to spend the rest of your life with.

MAY 2014

Love Stories: Kellen + Katy They say that opposites attract, right? For bubbly HR rep Katy McClenahan, 25, and quiet electrical engineer Kellen Kinard, 25, their seemingly different personalities are what first drew these two together. Yet, as their relationship evolved, these self-proclaimed goofballs realized just how much they had in common, especially when it comes to making each other laugh. Here is their love story.

Photography by Joel Valencia

How did you two meet? What were your first impressions of each other?

Kellen: We met online. My first impression of Katy was that I liked her and I wanted to talk to her more.

Katy: My first impression of Kellen in person was that he was intelligent and a Southern gentleman.

What makes your relationship unique?

Katy: At first glance, Kellen and I seem to be total opposites. We are actually more alike than people think.

Kellen: On the outside, we seem normal. We really like being goofy and making each other laugh.

Describe your partner in three words.

Katy: Intelligent. Sweet. Listener.

Kellen: Attractive. Intelligent. Funny.

Tell us about the proposal.

Kellen: We work a couple blocks from each other, so I picked her up at work and took her to the Botanical Gardens. We walked around for a little bit, and then we sat down on a swing. Then, I got down on one knee and asked her to marry me.

Katy: While we walked around, I was so nervous that I didn’t talk much—very out of character for me! When he proposed, I was surprised and incredibly happy. It took some time for it to sink in!

What was your experience like shopping for the ring at Diamonds Direct?

Katy: When Kellen and I talked about getting engaged, I told him that he had to see my friend Rachel at Diamonds Direct. I visited her one day, and she explained to me all about diamonds and the way they are graded. I chose the Marquis solitaire with a cathedral setting because it is different, and I love the look of the single stone.

Tell us a little about your upcoming wedding.

Katy: Our wedding will be at the church where I grew up in my hometown in Mississippi. I am the most excited marrying the love of my life; I am also excited about dancing at our reception and our signature drink.

Kellen: My cake is going to be awesome—it is a double doozie chocolate chip cookie cake. I am so excited about marrying my best friend.

What are you most looking forward to about spending the rest of your lives together?

Katy: I am looking forward to traveling and having new, fun experiences together.

Kellen: Being goofy with my best friend.

What is the best piece of advice you’ve been given about love/relationships?

Katy: Say “I love you” as much as you can. Never let them forget how you feel about them.

Kellen: Pray together every night. It’s hard to stay mad at each other.

JUNE 2014

Love Stories: Stephen + Erin The three years that Stephen McCubbin, 29, and Erin Ramsey McCubbin, 27, have been together are marked by exhilarating adventures and lots of laughter. And while both describe themselves as independent people, this pair has found that life is sweeter when they’re together. Here is their love story.

Photos by Catherine Richie Park, MyLife Photography

How did you two meet?

S: We met online, and after a couple of weeks of smooth talking Erin, I finally was able to convince her to meet me in person.

E: Our first date was at a fair in Mississippi. At the time, I was living in Birmingham, and Stephen was in Nashville, so the first time we could meet was while we were both traveling for work. At the fair we discovered our shared appreciation of Ferris wheels and funnel cake.

Where is your favorite spot in Birmingham to spend time together?

E: We are huge fans of Momma Goldberg’s and downtown Homewood in general.

S: Oh, she got me a Momma G's hat because I love it so much there. We also really enjoy going to the Barons games.

What is your favorite thing about each other?

E: He makes me laugh more than any other person I've ever encountered in my life.

S: I love watching her process some of the jokes I make when she doesn't get them right away. That’s priceless.

Tell us about the proposal.

S: We traveled to Hawaii for a much needed vacation. One day, we went horseback riding, and as luck would have it, we were the only ones on the trip. After riding for a few hours and swimming in a freezing cold waterfall, I asked to take one more picture of Erin facing the waterfall, pretending to hold the waterfall in her hands. After the photo, she turned around and I was on my knee with the ring.

E: For the life of me, I cannot remember exactly what Stephen said—I was mentally blinded by the excitement of everything! Stephen tells me he knows exactly what he said and will save that story for a time when I least expect it.

What was your experience like shopping for the ring at Diamonds Direct?

S: Whitney at Diamonds Direct is awesome--she helped me get everything set up and keep it a secret from Erin.

There was a chance of the ring not getting here in time before we left, but Whitney worked her magic and got the ring just in time before our trip.

E: For my ring, I wanted something timeless but nontraditional. It was so different than what I thought I would want, but when I put it on my finger, I couldn't imagine wearing any other ring for the rest of my life.

What is the best piece of advice you’ve been given about love/relationships?

E: Hold hands and remember to laugh. The rest will work itself out.

S: It’s hard work. The right one will make it easier, though.

What are you most looking forward to about spending the rest of your lives together?

E: All the firsts we have ahead of us: owning our first home and having our first child. But, I am also looking forward to knowing that I've found someone who loves me because of my quirks, not in spite of them. There is such comfort in that.

JULY 2014

Love Stories: Will + Marlo Will Lowery, 24, and Marlo Wilson, 22, knew from the moment they met that they were meant to be. After enduring a long-distance relationship, these high school sweethearts are looking forward to tying the knot this December and spending the rest of their lives together.

Here is their love story.

How did you two meet?

W: We were set up by our best friends in high school. I always thought Marlo was cute, but when we actually hung out for the first time, I was immediately drawn to her. We connected right off the bat.

M: My first impression of Will before we met was that he thought he was “too cool for school.”

After actually hanging out with him, I realized there was more to him than the “cool kid” persona he displayed. He was charming, sweet, and fun to be around.

What is your favorite thing to do together?

W: Sipping a glass of red wine and simply enjoying each other’s company. We have been dating long distance during much of our relationship, so we haven’t ever really had the luxury of endless time to spend together. It certainly makes you appreciate the hours you do get to spend together.

Tell us about your most memorable date.

M: With Will being two years older, we both knew it would be difficult to continue dating when he left for college. When I moved down to Tuscaloosa my freshman year, Will called me and asked me to come to his house to watch a movie. It was so simple and small, but hanging out with him as more than friends for the first time in years was so memorable.

When did you realize you had met “the one”?

W: When we first started dating in high school. I can remember telling my mom that I knew would marry her one day.

M: He was the first boy I ever loved. Even when he left for college, that feeling never went away. I guess I had known from the very beginning that he was who I wanted to spend the rest of my life with.

Tell us about the proposal.

W: We had just arrived in Orange Beach, AL for a vacation with friends, and I told her I wanted to take her to dinner just the two of us.

We went to Fisher’s Restaurant and walked around the marina looking at the boats and talking. After discussing our future, I hit a knee on the dock and asked her to spend the rest of her life with me.

M: I was shaking and crying and so shocked I forgot to say yes! We walked over to the restaurant and I was surprised to find both of our families were waiting inside to celebrate with us. It was perfect.

What was your experience like shopping for the ring at Diamonds Direct?

W: It was phenomenal. All of my friends that recently bought a ring went there, so I followed suit and I am more than happy with the result. Mary at Diamonds Direct helped me find the perfect stone then helped me design the setting. The ring has a round stone with a “VS1” blue inclusion that makes the diamond look even more brilliant.

Now that you’ve found “the one,” what advice would you give to someone else about love?

W: Don’t be in a rush—you will find love precisely when you are supposed to.

M: Be with someone who makes you better.

What are you most looking forward to about spending the rest of your lives together?

M: Just starting our lives together. We have been in a long distance relationship for over a year now, and I am just looking forward to being together, forever.

W: Her cute face being the first thing I wake up to and the last thing I fall asleep to for the rest of my life.

AUGUST 2014

Love Stories: Cody + Allyson The day that Cody Garrett, 24, proposed to Allyson Garrett, 24, was nothing short of an adventure. A dynamic proposal perfectly juxtaposes their simple, sweet ceremony at the courthouse and a surprise backyard reception with friends and family. It seems these lovebirds are always full of surprises—here is their love story.

How did you two meet?

C: We met at the hospital when we were both patient care assistants. My first impression of Allyson was that she was a gorgeous, energetic girl that really cares about other people.

A: Cody was actually training me to be a PCA—I thought he was fun and had the most beautiful blue eyes.

Describe your partner in three words.

C: Beautiful, caring, and charismatic A: Funny, hardworking, and warmhearted

What is your favorite thing about each other?

C: Her smile. When she smiles, it can always make the day better.

A: His eyes; they are caring under his hard-looking exterior.

Tell us about the proposal.

C: We were planning on going on a cruise, and I decided that’s when I would propose. I wanted it to be the most memorable proposal, so I decided to do it while scuba diving, even though neither of us had ever done it before! I had the instructor distract her so that when she looked up, she saw me holding a box with the ring inside.

A: I thought we were just going scuba diving, then “bam!” there was a ring in my face. It took me a second to process that it was an engagement ring, and then all I could do was scream “yes!” and nod my head.

C: She was so excited that all I could see were bubbles everywhere. Her hand came through the bubbles and I knew she had said yes.

What was your experience like shopping for the ring at Diamonds Direct?

C: My experience was great. Rachel was very knowledgeable and helped me pick out the perfect ring. She even put together a fake ring for me to propose with under water in case it was dropped!

A: My ring is a princess cut solitaire diamond, and it is absolutely beautiful. I chose a wrap to go around the solitaire, which really accents the engagement ring.

What is the best piece of advice you’ve been given about love?

C: Relationships can be hard work. You both have to be very understanding and able to make compromises.

A: Forgiveness is the most important thing people need to have in a relationship. Neither you nor your partner is perfect, so you have to be able to forgive each other.

What are you most looking forward to about spending the rest of your lives together?

C: Retirement and being able to spend our days together without having to worry about work.

A: Sitting in rocking chairs, watching our grandkids play in the yard.

SEPTEMBER 2014

Love Stories: Lauren + Madhi When Lauren McWhorter, 27, first started chatting with nowhusband Madhi McWhorter, 25, she told a coworker that she knew she was going to marry him. Three years later, after a trembling proposal and gorgeous beach wedding in Jamaica, the two embark on the rest of their lives together as one. This is their love story.

Photos by Mallory McLemore | Sandals Resorts

How did you two meet?

L: We actually went to high school together, but we never talked to one another. I was infatuated with him but never said a word. We didn’t speak until I was out of college and living in Nashville. I told him “Happy Birthday” on Facebook and that was the beginning of it all.

M: Lauren was a year ahead of me in high school. I always wanted to approach her but never had the courage. That simple “Happy Birthday” comment is what started our relationship.

What is your favorite thing about your partner?

L: His kind heart; he will do anything for anyone. I know I can ask him to do anything, and he will always do it—no questions asked.

M: Her drive; she helps me to be a better person.

Describe your partner in three words.

L: Late (for anything and everything!), affectionate, social M: Loving, passionate, comforting

If you had to compare your partner to someone famous, who would it be?

L: Superman—that was his nickname when he was younger because people thought he could do anything. I still think he can!

M: Sandra Bullock—she looks a lot like Lauren, and the personality she has in her movies is like Lauren’s.

Tell us about the proposal.

L: I came home from work, opened the door, and hit him. He was down on one knee, and it was pitch black; I didn’t know what was going on. Then, he flipped on the lights and popped open the ring box. I started crying immediately, but I think he was more nervous than me. He could hardly hold the box he was shaking so much.

M: I was terrified, nervous, weak, happy, and excited. I wanted Lauren to feel like it was perfect. I wanted it to be something more romantic, but I couldn’t wait any longer.

What was your experience like shopping for the ring at Diamonds Direct?

M: It was a very relaxing and enjoyable experience. It was nice to feel like there was no pressure and that everyone really tries to get you the best diamond for your money.

L: My engagement ring is nothing like what I would have picked out, but that is what makes it so special. It is a center diamond with diamonds around it and on the band. It is more beautiful than I ever could have imagined it to be.

Now that you’ve found “the one,” what advice would you give to someone else about love?

L: You are not always going to agree, so don’t try to. Find a way to agree to disagree.

M: Find your best friend and marry them.

What are you most looking forward to about spending the rest of your lives together?

L: Growing together, growing stronger, and having a best friend to go through all the good and bad times with.

M: Just being able to have her by my side for the rest of my life.

OCTOBER 2014

Love Stories: Yonti + Chris According to Yonti Anchrum, 30, and Christopher Brown, 31, the best relationships blossom from solid friendships. A story six years in the making, their relationship entered a new chapter when Chris popped the question on Christmas Eve of last year. Now, the pair cannot wait to write the rest of their fairytale as they tie the knot this fall.

Photos by Sam Jasper of NowVision Photography

How do you enjoy spending time together?

C: Our favorite thing to do is travel out of state to explore new places and things.

Y: We both love visiting new places. Our interests are very similar, so our trips always consists of a little bit of shopping, a lot of adventure, good eats, and some relaxation, too.

Describe your partner in three words.

Y: Compassionate, generous, relaxed.

C: Amazing, talented, loving.

What is your favorite thing about your partner?

Y: His relaxed nature—Chris is always cool, calm and collected. Whenever I am nervous or upset about something, he can always say the right thing to put me at ease.

C: My favorite thing about Yonti is how smart and educated she is. When she sets her mind to something that she wants to accomplish, she takes her time to achieve it. That motivates me to become a better individual.

Tell us about the proposal.

C: I had already gotten the ring but had no idea when I wanted to propose. In December, I asked her mom for her blessing; she eased my nervousness and gave me some great advice.

Y: My mother loves to open one gift on Christmas Eve. We were at my house and had just opened our gift, when Chris came over and pretended to not be feeling so well (I think it was nerves). He went down on one knee, and all I remember after that was saying “Yes!” and smiling with excitement for the rest of the night.

What was your experience like shopping for the ring at Diamonds Direct?

C: We visited the store about three times, and each time the associates were very knowledgeable about all of the rings. They were not pushy and allow us to explore all options before making our final decision.

Y: I knew that I wanted a timeless, dainty ring. The Henri Daussi ring I selected was my absolute favorite because of the French pavé halo design and the antique design in the bridge.

Now that you’ve found “the one,” what advice would you give to someone else about love?

Y: Friendship should be one of the most vital parts of your relationship. Some of the greatest relationships come from the best friendships.

C: Always take your time before you decide to tell someone that you love them. People forget that love is a strong word that should not be taken for granted.

What are you most looking forward to about spending the rest of your lives together?

C: As we continue life together, I am looking forward to starting a family and us being as successful as possible through the grace of God. Y: I am looking forward to the continuous love, respect, and support that we give each other. There is no greater joy that I look forward to than spending the rest of my life with my best friend.

NOVEMBER 2014

Love Stories: Preston + Katiee For Preston Sloan, 20, and Katiee Moon, 18, love means acceptance.

These two proudly admire each other’s “weirdness,” and know that no matter what, they can always be themselves around the other. You’re most likely to find this engaged duo spending time outdoors fishing, boating, or—as on one special occasion—popping the question.

Photos by Gracie Moon

What is your favorite thing to do together?

K: Anything outdoors-y. We have so much fun, even if we aren’t doing anything extravagant!

P: Fishing is something we both enjoy, and we enjoy it even more in each other’s company. There is nothing more attractive than a girl who knows how to fish. She always catches the biggest one, too.

Tell us about your most memorable date.

P: This Valentine’s day, I surprised Katiee with a picnic at our favorite spot. I carved our names in the tree that we always hang our hammocks in. We were only there for about an hour until it started raining, but it will always be one of the most memorable times we have spent together.

Describe your partner in three words.

K: Weird. Loving. Adventurous.

P: Perfect. Funny. Weird.

Tell us about the proposal.

P: I did it at our lake house by a campfire at night. I made a huge sign with Christmas lights reading, “Marry me?” and put it on the side of our boat. Katiee believed we were alone-- little did she know, there were around 30 family members and friends hidden everywhere.

K: We were by the fire when a boat pulled up with the “Marry me?” lights; I was so shocked. Then all of our friends and family came out of nowhere and began shooting fireworks. He got on his knee, and I said yes!

P: When she said yes, it was the best moment of my life.

What was your experience like shopping for the ring at Diamonds Direct?

P: Excellent—I have never experienced such great customer service. Our sales associate Kimberly did an amazing job at helping me find the perfect ring for my perfect fiancée.

K: The ring is exactly what I wanted: one diamond in the middle with a halo around it and a diamond-studded band.

Now that you’ve found “the one,” what advice would you give to someone else about love?

K: Don’t fight, especially over things that don’t even matter. Your relationship isn’t worth losing over the silly things.

P: Go into a relationship being yourself. Be weird, awkward, loving, and caring. If that’s who you are, your one true love will adore that about you.

What are you most looking forward to about spending the rest of your lives together?

K: Having my best friend and soulmate always by my side. And one day having kids… kids are fun.

P: Honestly, just being able to hang out every day. Nothing sounds more perfect than that!

DECEMBER 2014

Love Stories: Katie + Jonathan For Jonathan Bradberry, 31, true love was something for which he had waited patiently. For Katie Jones, 24, true love arrived when she least expected it. Now, as the pair makes plans to tie the knot next summer, one thing is for certain: whether awaited or unanticipated, these two were meant for each other. Here is their love story.

Photo by Stacy Richardson Photography

How did you two meet?

J: The two people that introduced us, a couple named John and Jackie, go way back to when I was eight years old. I was talking to John at church one morning, and he started telling me about this girl named Katie I needed to meet.

K: When we met, I thought he was really laid back and funny. He seemed like a nice guy, and everyone had good things to say about him.

What is your favorite thing about each other?

J: She can always lift me up with her encouraging words.

K: I like how much other people like him. He is a really good friend to people.

If you had to compare your partner to someone famous, who would it be?

K: Definitely a character off of Duck Dynasty. He likes to hunt, he's country, and he’s hilarious.

J: Jennifer Anniston, because Katie is funny, full of life, and so good looking!

When did you realize you had met “the one”?

K: I wasn't expecting to meet anyone at the time that I did. I knew there were certain qualities I would need in my significant other, and Jonathan possessed those qualities.

J: It didn't take me long to know she was the one. After a short period of spending time together, we both looked at each other one night with smiles on our faces; we were both excited that we had finally found each other.

Tell us about the proposal.

K: We were on a vacation with my family over the summer at Orange Beach. My dad used to be a wedding photographer, so naturally, we are always taking family pictures. There was one night we picked to go out on the beach to take pictures.

J: Proposing was something I had waited a long time for, so I was really excited to plan something meaningful for Katie. I stained, cut, and hand-painted wooden signs, and I got Katie's dad to help me collect some pictures of her to make a slideshow for the proposal.

K: As we approached the beach, I noticed there were all these painted signs. Jonathan told me to look at them, and I said, "How sweet, someone must be getting engaged."

J: I said “It’s for you. Katie, this is for you.” It was quite a surprise, which is what I was going for. We walked down to the beach, watched the slideshow, and I got on my knee and asked the girl of my dreams to be mine forever.

What was your experience like shopping for the ring at Diamonds Direct?

J: I wanted to pick out the ring myself, and all of my friends kept insisting I go check out Diamonds Direct. The sales associate Rachel was so helpful in educating me on diamonds, taking the time to show me several options, and even allowing me time to think it over.

K: The ring is stunning; I get so many compliments on it all the time.

In fact, we went back to buy both of our wedding bands there. That was fun for me to be able to pick out Jonathan's ring.

Now that you’ve found “the one,” what advice would you give to someone else about love?

J: Be patient with love. Take the time to learn the other person’s needs and desires. Make an effort to love them in the ways they best like to receive love.

K: Don't expect your relationship to be perfect. Love is not a feeling—it is something you have to choose every day.